'Rare' sapphire jewel linked to Russia's Romanov dynasty could fetch £1.5m at auction

A rare sapphire belonging to a legendary Russian ruling family is expected to sell for as much as £1.5 million when it goes under the hammer at Sotheby’s.

The stone, known as the Romanov Sapphire, weighs 197.80 carats and is an unheated Ceylon sapphire.

It forms part of Sotheby’s royal and noble jewels sale, which includes several other pieces.

Few gemstones documented as belonging to the Russian Crown Jewels remain identifiable today.

That rarity makes the Romanov Sapphire one of the most significant jewels from the time of the Romanov dynasty.

Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna wore the sapphire at the Winter Palace Ball of 1903.

The ball is widely regarded as the last great spectacle of imperial Russia and was immortalised in some of the most iconic images of the Romanov court.

After the Russian revolution, the sapphire entered the Soviet government’s dispersal sales.

Opera singer Ganna Walska acquired it, before it was later acquired by Cartier.

The Romanovs were the last imperial dynasty to rule Russia, from 1613 until 1917, while Peter the Great and Catherine the Great are among their most famous members.

Cartier’s Devonshire black opal tiara also features in the sale and is expected to fetch up to £998,000.

The tiara was likely commissioned in connection with the Coronation of King George VI in 1937.

It later achieved particular prominence at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, when Mary Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, wore it in her role as Mistress of the Robes.

Its last public appearance was at the London premiere of the film Wuthering Heights, where Emerald Fennell – the film’s director – wore it on the red carpet.

A rare sapphire, emerald and diamond toi et moi ring formerly owned by socialite Catherine, Lady Walston is another item for sale. It is expected to sell for up to £454,000.

Andres White Correal, chairman of jewellery Europe and Middle East, said: “The extraordinary success of our Royal & Noble Jewels sales reflects collectors’ enduring fascination with jewels that combine exceptional gemstones, craftsmanship and history.

“This season’s auction is led by rare treasures associated with some of Europe’s most important imperial and royal families, from the Romanovs to the Houses of Orleans and Braganza, each offering a unique window into history.